Despite the hackneyed secret-child premise, this third and final Happy, Texas contemporary (after Long, Tall Cowboy Christmas) has wonderfully charming characters. When Carlene Varner left Happy, Tex., a week after graduating high school, she took more than Jace Dawson’s heart—she took his baby. Believing neither of them was ready for marriage, Carlene kept her pregnancy a secret. After she returns to the small town with her intelligent, headstrong nine-year-old daughter, Tilly, in tow, it doesn’t take long for the townsfolk, or Jace, to know she’s his, thanks to the strong family resemblance. Jace is angry and confused, and also aware that he’s never gotten over Carlene. He was raised in a tight-knit family and he’s always been taught to do the right thing. Being a father to Tilly means also spending time with Carlene, and the chemistry between the two is as strong as ever. Carlene fears that Jace only wants to be with her out of obligation to Tilly, so Jace has to work overtime to prove his love. The lovers are aided by the wisdom and love of Jace’s family and Carlene’s sister. This sweet, heartwarming romance is sure to increase Brown’s fan base. (Feb.)